Peterson Applauds Workers' Compensation Rebates to Local Job Creators

COLUMBUS—Senator Bob Peterson (R-Washington Court House) applauded the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation's (BWC) recent rebates to local private employers and public-taxing districts. This summer's one-time, statewide rebate of approximately $1.5 billion is the fourth such rebate in the last five years.

“The fact that the BWC is able to improve conditions for workers and simultaneously maintain good financial management is a testament to their professionalism and good work,” said Peterson. “ I look forward to seeing the positive impact these dollars will have on our local businesses and community."

A county-by-county breakdown for the 17th Senate district is below:

Clinton County: $1,434,110.65 in total rebates to 534 private employers and $534,398.87 to 34 public employers

Fayette County: $1,198,939.45 in total rebates to 353 private employers and $503,434.45.08 to 18 public employers

Gallia County: $1,309,762.45 in total rebates to 365 private employers and $373,045.95 to 30 public employers

Highland County: $1,162,703.95 in total rebates to 498 private employers and $439,056.70 to 34 public employers

Jackson County: $1,229,640.60 in total rebates to 383 private employers and $418,523.33 to 26 public employers

Lawrence County: $1,513,909.50 in total rebates to 455 private employers and $616,795.65 to 33 public employers

Pickaway County: $1,792,214.80 in total rebates to 561 private employers and $532,998.50 to 33 public employers

Pike County: $1,317,279.85 in total rebates to 238 private employers and $296,823.12 to 24 public employers

Vinton County: $531,255.10 in total rebates to 116 private employers and $164,758.89 to 16 public employers

Since 2011, Ohio has reduced rates to 30-year lows and delivered more than $4 billion in rebates and credits to Ohio employers. The bureau has also improved programs designed to reduce workplace injuries and has focused more on helping injured Ohioans receive the care they need to return to work.

An estimated $48 million of the total rebate will go to schools and $111 million to local governments.

Ohio's workers' compensation rates have gone from 3rd highest in the nation in 2008 to 11th lowest, according to the Oregon Study, a nationally recognized benchmark of rates.